Russia’s S-500 Prometheus represents a quantum leap in air and missile defense, with recent offers for joint production alongside India. This mobile system, developed by Almaz-Antey, supplements the S-400 by targeting hypersonic missiles, stealth aircraft, and low-Earth-orbit satellites at unprecedented ranges.
What it is?
The S-500 engages up to 10 targets simultaneously in under 4 seconds, using hit-to-kill interceptors like the 77N6-N and advanced Gallium Nitride radars for stealth detection. Its road-mobile design includes multiple TEL vehicles on 8×8/10×10 trucks, acquisition radars detecting threats at 2,000 km, and engagement up to 600 km range and 180-200 km altitude.
Why it matters?
Russia has repeatedly proposed joint S-500 production to India via G2G deals with technology transfer, countering sanctions and building on S-400 deliveries. Amid regional threats from hypersonic weapons and near-space assets, this fills critical gaps in India’s layered defenses.
Benefits for India
- Enhanced Threat Neutralization: Intercepts ballistic/hypersonic missiles beyond S-400’s limits, protecting key assets from Pakistan/China.
- Near-Space Dominance: ASAT capability against LEO satellites secures communications and reconnaissance.
- Atmanirbhar Boost: Co-production transfers tech, reduces $2-2.5B regiment costs long-term, and integrates with Project Kusha for indigenous superiority.
SSB Corner: Interview Usage
Question: “Discuss India’s air defence strategy amid evolving threats.
Example: “Sir, India’s multi-layered approach integrates S-400 with indigenous Akash and upcoming Project Kusha. Russia’s S-500 joint production offer adds hypersonic/near-space defense at 600 km range, enhancing Atmanirbhar Bharat through ToT while deterring advanced threats without full imports.”
Lecturette Topic: “S-500 and India’s Path to Self-Reliant Air Defense: Opportunities and Strategic Imperatives.” (2-min talk: Cover features, Indo-Russian ties, benefits vs. indigenous alternatives.)
Will joint S-500 production accelerate India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense, or should DRDO prioritize fully indigenous alternatives like Project Kusha? Drop your thoughts below!
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